Table manners are extremely important in the USA. Whether at a business luncheon, a date, dinner at the boss's home or a formal affair, it is always important to make a good impression. Here are some tips that will make dining in the USA a much more enjoyable experience!

·  Most of the time there is a folded napkin on the table that is used for several purposes. First, if you place the napkin in your lap, it means you are ready to begin to dine. If you need to leave the table for any reason, place your napkin on your chair. Finally, a napkin on the table signifies you are done with your meal.

·  At more expensive restaurants and dinner parties, there are usually preset dinner settings with utensils on the table upon arrival. On the left there are three forks (salad, dinner and dessert). Also, on the right, there are two spoons (soup and tea) and one butter knife.

·  You always start with the utensils farthest from your plate and work to the inside using one utensil for each course.

·  When ordering, if you are uncertain about some items on the menu, ask your server. It is better to find out before you order something you do not want.

·  If you are dining in a formal setting, it is best to order foods that can be eaten with a fork and knife. Other types of food can be messy and should be eaten in a more informal setting.

·  Be careful not to order too many alcoholic beverages because drinking too much does not make a good impression.

·  Always sit up straight.

·  Do not place your elbows on the table while you are eating. Keep your hands in your lap or resting on the table.

·  Wait to begin your meal until everyone is served.

·  Chew with your mouth closed.

·  Do not make loud noises when you eat.

·  It is rude to slurp your soup or beverage.

·  Try not to leave your seat to reach something at the far end of the table. Politely ask someone to pass it to you.

·  It is impolite reach over another person's plate.

·  If food becomes stuck in your teeth, first try to remove it with your tongue. If that does not work, excuse yourself from the table and find a mirror where you can remove the food in private.

Hopefully, these few tips will spare you a great deal of embarrassment.